Special Poll
Former Attorney General Bill Barr strongly criticized former President Trump’s call for Congress to eliminate the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) as “irresponsible and dangerous.” He cautioned that failing to renew the intelligence community’s surveillance authority under FISA could have severe consequences, including potential terrorist attacks on the United States.
Barr, who served in Trump’s administration from 2019 to 2020, emphasized the crucial role of FISA in protecting the country from security threats, particularly in an era of heightened global risks. He expressed concerns about Trump’s objections, stating that they seemed driven more by personal grievances than reasoned arguments.
Trump’s recent assertion to “KILL FISA” on his social media platform, Truth Social, came just before a House vote on the reauthorization of surveillance authority under Section 702 of FISA. Despite Trump’s stance, the House failed to advance the reauthorization, leaving the fate of Section 702 uncertain as it approaches its expiration date.
Barr clarified that the controversy surrounding FISA primarily pertained to its use in targeting American citizens, not the foreign surveillance capabilities under consideration. He stressed that the collection of foreign communications poses no Fourth Amendment issues and is essential for national security efforts.
Highlighting Trump’s initial support for extending Section 702 authority during his presidency, Barr noted a shift in stance influenced by political dynamics. He criticized this wavering as detrimental to national security and warned of potential repercussions if surveillance capabilities were compromised.
Barr urged Republicans not to let FISA expire, cautioning that any resulting security lapses could lead to devastating consequences and political fallout. He also raised concerns about the future of intelligence agencies’ capabilities if Trump were to be reelected and continued to oppose Section 702 of FISA.
Senate Republicans echoed Barr’s apprehensions, emphasizing the importance of maintaining surveillance tools to protect against foreign threats. They acknowledged the need for reforms but stressed the critical role of FISA in safeguarding national security.
In summary, Barr’s remarks underscore the urgency of preserving FISA’s surveillance authority to address evolving security challenges effectively and prevent potential threats to the United States.